On January 13th 2012 I made the decision that I needed to be healthier. My weight had progressively risen over the years to a point where I now weighed 210.5 pounds. My Body Mass Index (BMI) was 27.7, which was at the high end of the overweight category nearing obesity. I was taking two medications for high blood pressure and even with the help of daily pills my ratings were 146/95. My health was deteriorating and I felt miserable.

A recent visit to my doctor was a wake-up call. I had two cancer scares and the doctor explained that unless I changed my lifestyle and took better care of myself I would likely not be around very long. One of the first suggestions he made was to lose some weight and begin an exercise program.